Where is the power steering fluid on a Lexus RX 350?
The power steering fluid reservoir in a Lexus RX 350 is located in the engine bay on the passenger side near the firewall, under a cap labeled Power Steering Fluid. Use the correct automatic transmission fluid type specified for your year, and consult the owner’s manual if you’re unsure.
Location in the engine bay
To identify the exact reservoir, use these steps to locate it quickly inside the engine compartment.
- Open the hood and secure it safely.
- Stand at the front of the vehicle and locate the power steering pump area; on most RX 350 models the reservoir sits near the pump on the passenger side of the engine bay.
- Follow the power steering hoses from the pump to find the reservoir, which is usually a small translucent bottle with a cap.
- Look for a cap or label that reads “Power Steering Fluid” or shows a steering-wheel icon.
- If the reservoir is translucent, check the level against the min/max marks; if not, refer to the manual for level indicators.
- If you still can’t locate it, consult the owner’s manual or a Lexus dealer for your exact year and trim.
Knowing the exact placement can save time and helps ensure you don’t confuse it with other fluid reservoirs in the engine bay.
Fluid type and refilling procedure
Using the correct fluid and following proper refilling steps helps prevent steering problems and damage.
Before you begin, confirm the correct ATF specification for your RX 350 year. The reservoir cap or owner’s manual will indicate the required fluid. In many modern Lexus/Toyota models, the system uses a Dexron-based automatic transmission fluid (ATF) such as Dexron VI or the specific Lexus ATF WS specification. Using the wrong fluid can harm the seals and steering performance.
- Have the appropriate ATF on hand (for most RX 350s this is Dexron VI or the Lexus ATF WS). Do not substitute with generic hydraulic fluids.
- With the engine off, wipe the cap and the area clean to avoid introducing dirt.
- Remove the cap and, if the reservoir is translucent with a level line, check the fluid level against the min/max marks.
- Pour a small amount of ATF into the reservoir using a clean funnel, then recheck level. Add gradually to avoid overfilling.
- Reinstall the cap and start the engine. With the engine running, gently turn the steering wheel from lock to lock a few times to bleed air from the system. Check for leaks and recheck the fluid level if necessary.
- If the fluid appears very dark or has a burnt smell, or if you notice steering stiffness or noise, have the system inspected by a professional, as there may be a leak or worn seals.
Careful handling and proper fluid type are essential to maintain steering performance and longevity of the power steering system.
Additional notes by year
Because the RX 350 has evolved through different generations, the exact location and fluid specification can vary slightly. For the most accurate guidance, refer to your specific year’s owner’s manual or the service information for your VIN. If you’re not comfortable checking or refilling the reservoir yourself, a Lexus service center can perform the task.
Summary: The power steering fluid reservoir on a Lexus RX 350 is typically located in the engine bay on the passenger side near the firewall, with a cap labeled Power Steering Fluid. Use the correct Dexron-based ATF as specified for your year, and follow careful steps to check and refill. When in doubt, consult the owner’s manual or a Lexus technician.
How to check power steering fluid in Lexus?
How to check power steering fluid: Find the reservoir under your car's hood marked with a steering wheel or the phrase, power steering fluid. Make sure the fluid reaches the marked level.
What is the power steering warning light on a Lexus RX 350?
The Lexus RX 350 power steering warning light, often a red or yellow steering wheel with an exclamation point, indicates a problem with the power steering system, which can make steering difficult. The issue is typically electrical, caused by a weak battery, failing alternator, or a faulty power steering ECU. If you see this light, pull over to a safe location, as the power assist may be disabled, and have the vehicle inspected by a technician immediately.
What the light means
- Electric Power Steering (EPS) Malfunction: Modern RX 350s have an electric system, so low fluid is not the cause.
- Electrical Issues: The light can be triggered by a low-voltage battery or a faulty alternator, which can affect the EPS system's stability.
- Other Faults: The problem could also be a faulty steering angle sensor, a problem with the power steering ECU (computer), or other electrical system issues.
- Intermittent Loss of Assist: You may experience intermittent power steering loss, which is dangerous and requires immediate attention from a dealer.
What to do
- Pull over safely: As soon as it is safe to do so, pull over to the side of the road.
- Avoid continuing to drive: Driving with the warning light on is dangerous because you may have to use significant physical force to turn the wheel.
- Do not rely on the light disappearing after a restart: While a simple reset can sometimes turn the light off, it indicates a potential underlying issue that needs to be properly diagnosed and repaired.
- Have it inspected by a professional: Have the vehicle towed to a Lexus dealer or a qualified technician to diagnose the specific problem. They will need to check the electrical system for faults.
Where is my power steering fluid reservoir located?
This step is quite simple, as power steering fluid reservoirs are usually located in the same place, except for a few. The reservoir could be made of either plastic or metal, and you can usually find it towards the rear of the engine bay, typically on the driver's side.
Where is power steering fluid located in Lexus RX 350?
Set. Well it's probably a little low. It is indeed empty okay so almost all Japanese cars as I found out my mom's Ford Taurus that she had use ATF normally Dexron or Mirkon. For power steering foot.
